“This legislation alone is not going to be the solution to our ongoing economic recovery, but it will help put unemployed residents back to work in good jobs with good benefits,” Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) said.

Under the legislation, casinos would be able to offer free drinks on the gaming floor only.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030’s Bernice Corpuz spoke with residents of Palmer about the possibility of a casino coming to their town.

Licensing fees collected by the state – at least $85 million for each casino and $25 million for the slot facility license – would be used for community mitigation, local capital projects, community colleges, tourism and other municipal needs.